Bronzers are scary, I know. We've all seen those make-up counter women, so orange and stripy they look like leather-upholstered clownfish. Good bronzer, though, looks fab from spring onwards for glowing summer skin without the sunburn. It needs two things to work – and this is where people go wrong. Firstly, you need a fat, domed brush. By domed, I mean with slightly rounded bristles rather than bluntly cut across like Jessie J's fringe; and by fat, I mean at least 5cm in diameter (those in compacts are useless. Donate to your kids for painting, or throw away and let's never speak of them again). Secondly, you need a golden or pinky/peachy brown (for dark or light skins, respectively). Choose a non-sparkly, but slightly shimmery pressed bronzing powder. Orange is the enemy. Leave it on the shelf.

Swirl the brush into the bronzer, loading it evenly. Stroke on a tissue to remove dusty excess, then blend outwards, along your cheekbones, forehead and chin, wherever the sun would naturally hit. Go easy. You'll need a pop of brighter blusher over the top to add colour, but you can skip eye shadow and finish with mascara and lip gloss. Pretty, summery and in no way Peter Andre, which is always what we're after.

NARS Bronzing Powder, £25, uk.spacenk.comI recommend these often. Three perfect shades for all skintones. Golden, glowing and absolutely no hint of orange.Benefit Hoola Bronzing Powder, £21.15, debenhams.comThis is pretty foolproof, gives a convincing tan effect and looks great on most skintones. You get lots, too.

17 Instant Glow Bronzing Powder, £4.59, boots.comFantastic product for the price, and a great way to try out bronzer for size. Blends well and lasts.